Are you missing out on these tax breaks?

Airbnb’s platform usually has two updates each year. One in the Summer and one in the Winter. This year’s Winter update came with a lot of cool features, like a much-needed button that allows potential guests to see the total price for their stay with all the fees included.  However, one piece of news was rolled out that I don’t believe enough people are talking about. Airbnb will now allow renters who live in apartment complexes to rent out their units . Many of these units are located in large cities, where the STR industry faces the stiffest regulations.

In addition to taking precautions to prevent a fire or having alarms to catch one early, you should consider using a fireproof safe to store your important documents and keepsakes. Here are just a few things you may consider keeping in one: 1. Identification documents — birth certificates, passports, marriage license, a copy of your driver’s license and vehicle registrations, and power-of-attorney documents. 2. Other personal papers — college transcripts and diplomas, financial documents, wills, and a list of other final wishes. 3. Property documents — home deeds, rental agreements, and car titles. 4. Insurance documents — Your policies, in addition to documentation of your home and personal items that are covered. Receipts for valuable items should be kept as well. 5. Cash and valuables — While it’s rarely wise to keep a large amount of money in your home, an emergency stash could be helpful. Keepsakes that cannot be replaced should be secured too. While fireproof safes are very effective, they are not completely indestructible. You should also consider keeping an electronic backup of important photos and documents. A safe deposit box is another option for storing items, but keep in mind that only you or anyone you designate can access it, and they are not accessible 24 hours a day. There is also a monthly rental fee involved. Fireproof safes range in price and size. It’s best to determine what you plan to store in yours and where in your home you plan to put it to determine the one that is right for you.

About you — Do you have kids or pets? Spills and accidents are not as easily cleaned from carpet. With that said, there are a lot of carpets that offer extra protection for preventing stains. A darker color would probably be a good choice too.

Large appliances can be quite costly, and unless they’re purchased as part of a renovation, most people aren’t really excited about having to replace them. Here are some things you can do to extend their life. Dishwashers — Load properly so that items don’t fall through and damage parts. Running an unloaded dishwasher occasionally with a cup of white vinegar on the top shelf will help to keep your unit clean and odor-free. Periodically clean your dishwasher trap (under the lower spray) to remove any remnants. Regularly check and clean the seal around the door. A broken seal can lead to an expensive mess. Refrigerators — Clean the coils a couple times a year. A dirty coil causes the compressor to work harder and can shorten the life of your appliance. It could also lead to a higher utility bill. Be sure to unplug your refrigerator when you do this, just remember to plug it back in! Ranges — If you have a smooth top, don’t drag pots and pans from one burner to another. For those stoves with burners, be sure to regularly clean and remove items that fall through. Keep your oven clean either by using the self-cleaning option or manually cleaning it. Washers — While it’s tempting to get as much laundry as you can into a load, it’s not good for your washer. Also ensure that your washer is level to avoid excessive vibration. Follow instructions for the type and amount of detergent that is best for your unit, and leave it open when it is not in use to prevent mildew. Dryers — It’s important to clean the lint filter after every load to keep air flowing freely. You should also have your duct cleaned annually to prevent it from clogging (which is a fire hazard). All appliances are a little different, and you should check your owner’s manual for specific tips on how to care for yours. With a little care, you can usually avoid costly repairs and a need for premature replacements.